People & Culture · Southern Ethiopia & Omo Valley
Dassanech People
Living in Ethiopia’s far south near the Kenyan border, the Dassanech have adapted to one of the harshest environments in the country.
- Best Time
- Year-round except April and May
- Suggested Stay
- Half day
- Altitude
- 370 m
- Region
- Southern Ethiopia & Omo Valley
Why We Go
Semi-nomads of the Omo delta, near the northern shore of Lake Turkana.
The Dassanech raise cattle, goats, sheep and camels, and farm sorghum and maize on the riverbanks when floods allow. Wealth is traditionally measured in livestock.
Women wear vivid jewellery and creative headpieces made from beads, metal and recycled materials. Visits begin with a short dugout crossing of the Omo at Omorate.
Highlights
- Crossing the Omo River by dugout canoe at Omorate
- Headdresses made from beads and recycled objects
- Dome-shaped homes on the dry delta
- Cattle, goats and camels at the heart of life
Journeys Including Dassanech People
Routes that pass through here
More in Southern Ethiopia & Omo Valley
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Speak to someone who has been there this season
Our guides travel these routes all year. Ask about road conditions, festival dates or the best time to visit. You will get a straight answer.
Or call us directly on +251 912 039405